Functional properties and cell type specific distribution of I(h) channels in leech neurons

The hyperpolarisation-activated cation current (I(h)) has been described in many vertebrate and invertebrate species and cell types. In neurons, I(h) is involved in rhythmogenesis, membrane potential stabilisation and many other functions. In this work, we investigate the distribution and functional properties of I(h) in identified leech neurons of intact segmental ganglia. We found I(h) in the mechanosensory touch (T), pressure (P) and noxious (N) neurons, as well as in Retzius neurons. The current displayed its largest amplitude in P neurons and we investigated its biophysical and pharmacological properties in these cells. I(h) was half-maximally activated at -65 mV and fully activated at -100 mV. The current mutually depended on both Na(+) and K(+) with a permeability ratio p(Na)/p(K) of ∼0.21. The reversal potential was approximately -35 mV. The time course of activation could be approximated by a single time constant of ∼370 ms at -60 mV, but required two time constants at -80 mV of ∼80 and ∼560 ms. The current was half-maximally blocked by 0.3 mmol l(-1) Cs(+) but was insensitive to the bradycardic agent ZD7288. The physiological function of this channel could be a subtle alteration of the firing behaviour of mechanosensory neurons as well as a stabilisation of the resting membrane potential.